Guest Post/ Martha Bourke

Today at Uniquely Moi Books we have the wonderful Martha Bourke!

Martha is the author of Jaguar Sun, which was just released. Just hearing the name of the book appeals to me. We aren't here to talk about me though, let's get the scoop on Martha and find out more about what's going on with her.

Most people don’t realize it, but Jaguar Sun is actually my second novel. I wrote another book about four years ago that I never really attempted to have published. It’s an MG Fantasy. At the time, I wasn’t exactly sure why I just wasn’t working on getting it out there. I was proud enough that I had written a novel and for some reason that, as they say, was that.

Now, as I look back, I realize that I was confused about the whole experience because had nothing to compare it to. After writing Jaguar Sun, I can see how much writing the first novel had just been so much work. Writing is always a lot of work, but this had been a real struggle. Then Maya and her BFF’s came into my life. And let’s not forget her boyfriend, Matt. I was so incredibly intrigued by these characters. I wanted to know everything about them. I wanted to see what their lives were like and where they were headed. As I continued to write, I wanted to know how Maya was going to deal with having to redefine her own identity, her relationships and her place in the world at just sixteen. And then kick some serious butt on top that!

As a result, I have fallen head over heels in love with writing YA Paranormal Romance. I adore everything about it. As far as I’m concerned, it’s where it’s at. I love writing for an older audience. I’m obsessed with the power of writing in the first person. And writing about Matt and Maya’s relationship in the context of the action was awesome. Their relationship is tender and supportive, and yes, it’s also hot. People keep telling me that they have a crush on Matt. I even had a reviewer confess something along those lines. My reply is always the same. Well, yeah, who wouldn’t? But, my guess is that it’s not because he’s beautiful, although he is. I think it’s because he’s Maya’s perfect compliment. He’s not perfect; he’s just perfect for her. And, let’s face it, that’s what it’s all about.

I start writing Jaguar Moon, Book 2 in the Jaguar Sun Series, in February. And I’m just as excited about it as I was about starting Book 1. Sometimes you need to take the wrong road before heading in the right direction. Without that first unpublished novel (which will still probably never see the light of day) I wouldn’t be where I’m at now as a writer. I would never have come to realize what kinds of stories I don’t want to tell. And Maya Delaney’s world would never have existed.

Thank you so much for stopping by Martha! I just love what you said about how sometimes you just need to take the wrong road first. Very well said girl!

You can get your copy from Amazon. Want to know Martha better? Follow her on Twitter, check out her blog, and find out more about the book on the website dedicated to The Jaguar Sun.